In the heart of the town of Blois, opposite the majestic Château Royal, stands a unique building: the Maison de la Magie. This museum of magic in Blois offers visitors a captivating experience, combining history, illusion and wonder. Spanning five floors and 2,000 m², magic enthusiasts and the curious of all ages discover a world where reality meets illusion.
The six-headed hydra: guardian of a magical universe
As soon as you arrive, a surprising show awaits you. Every half-hour, a six-headed hydra emerges from the windows of the House of Magic, offering passers-by a foretaste of the wonders that await them inside. This mythological creature, symbol of the museum, marks the start of an enchanting journey into the world of illusion.
Once inside, visitors are plunged into a world where reality merges with magic. The museum offers a fascinating exploration of thehistory of magic, from Antiquity to the present day. Thematic exhibitions trace the evolution of this age-old art form, featuring historic posters, emblematic props and grand illusions that have marked the history of prestidigitation.
Here’s an overview of the thematic areas that make up this temple of illusion:
- La Rotonde: a reception and introductory area
- The Hall of Illusions: an interactive tour of optical illusions
- The Magic Attic: a collection of mysterious objects
- Le Salon des Magiciens: a tribute to the great names of magic
These different areas offer total immersion in the world of magic, combining education and entertainment to satisfy the curiosity of all audiences.
Robert-Houdin: the legacy of a master illusionist
At the heart of the Musée de la magie in Blois is a unique collection of 170 objects linked to Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin, considered the father of modern magic. Born in Blois in 1805, this trained watchmaker revolutionized the art of illusion in the 19th century, transforming magic shows into veritable theatrical performances.
Robert-Houdin’s life and work are honored in a permanent exhibition featuring :
- His ingenious mechanical inventions
- His sophisticated automata
- His most famous magic tricks
- Historical documents tracing his career
This unique collection enables visitors to understand Robert-Houdin’s lasting impact on the art of magic, and his influence on subsequent generations of illusionists. The museum thus underlines Blois’ importance in the history of prestidigitation, making the town a must-see for magic enthusiasts.
An interactive and educational experience
The Musée de la magie in Blois doesn’t just display objects; it also offers a true immersion in the world of illusion. Magic shows are presented several times a day, giving visitors the opportunity to witness live performances by talented magicians. These 30-minute performances take place 3 or 4 times a day, allowing everyone to marvel at the prowess of the illusionists.
For younger visitors and families, the museum regularly organizes workshops and activities. These activities introduce children to the secrets of magic, stimulating their creativity and curiosity. Magic classes and even magical birthdays are on offer, making the Maison de la Magie an ideal place to celebrate in an original way.
The museum is also home to the Conservatoire National des Arts Magiques et de l’Illusion, an institution that contributes to the preservation and transmission of this ancestral art. This presence reinforces the museum’s educational role, providing a link between the past and present of magic.
| Activity | Public | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Magic show | All audiences | 30 minutes |
| Introductory workshop | Children | 1 hour |
| Guided tour | Adults and teenagers | 1h30 |
Practical information for your enchanted visit
To make the most of your visit to the Musée de la magie in Blois, here’s some essential practical information:
Opening hours: The museum is generally open from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2pm to 6:30pm. It welcomes visitors mainly during school vacations (Easter, summer, All Saints’ Day, Christmas), with precise dates indicated on the official website. Please note that the museum is closed on December 25 and January 1.
Admission: Admission is €13 for adults, €10 for concessions and €7 for children. Admission is free for children under 6. To avoid queues, we strongly recommend you book your tickets online.
To enhance your experience, consider combining your visit with that of the Château de Blois. This option allows you to discover two of Blois’ heritage gems in the same day. At the end of your tour, don’t forget to stop by the museum store, where you’ll find a wide selection of magic books and accessories to prolong the wonder at home.
The Musée de la magie in Blois offers a unique experience, combining history, art and illusion. Whether you’re passionate about prestidigitation or simply curious, this enchanting venue promises an unforgettable journey to the heart of the magical universe. With its dazzling shows, fascinating collections and interactive workshops, the Maison de la Magie reveals the secrets of a thousand-year-old art form, while preserving its mysteries. A visit that’s sure to leave you with… magical memories!